Empowered Living: Spiritual Resources from Ephesians 3
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, Highland Heights. Today, we delve into the profound truths found in Ephesians 3, focusing on the spiritual resources God provides to help us live a life that pleases Him. The Bible is filled with commands, but it also reveals the good things God wants to do in our lives. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians is a testament to this, especially his prayer in chapter 3, which outlines the spiritual resources necessary for living a godly life.
Paul begins by emphasizing the unity between Jews and Gentiles in Christ, breaking down the barriers that once separated them. He then transitions into a prayer, asking God to provide the Ephesians with the spiritual resources they need. The first resource is inner spiritual strength, which comes from the Holy Spirit. This strength is not something we can muster on our own; it is a divine gift that empowers us from within.
The second resource is spiritual depth, which Paul describes using three key terms: dwell, rooted, and grounded. To "dwell" means to let Christ settle down and be at home in our hearts. Being "rooted" implies sinking our spiritual roots deep into Jesus for stability and nourishment. "Grounded" is an architectural term, emphasizing the need for a strong foundation in Christ to withstand life's storms.
Paul's third request is for apprehension, the ability to grasp the vast dimensions of Christ's love. This is not merely an intellectual exercise but an experiential knowledge that transforms us. Finally, Paul prays for fullness, that we may be filled with all the fullness of God. This fullness is not about comparing ourselves to others but about yielding to Christ and allowing the Holy Spirit to work in us.
Paul concludes with a doxology, praising God for His immeasurable power and ability to do far more than we can ask or imagine. This power is active and working within us, enabling us to live a life that glorifies God. The church exists to glorify God, not ourselves, and we must rely on His strength to fulfill this purpose.
### Key Takeaways
1. Inner Spiritual Strength: True spiritual strength comes from the Holy Spirit, not from our own efforts. While we can engage in spiritual disciplines like reading the Bible and praying, it is the Holy Spirit who empowers us from within. This divine strength is inexhaustible, rooted in the riches of God's glory. [59:00]
2. Spiritual Depth: Paul prays for spiritual depth, which involves Christ dwelling in our hearts, being rooted in His love, and grounded in His Word. This depth provides stability and nourishment, enabling us to withstand life's storms and grow spiritually. It’s about letting Christ feel at home in every aspect of our lives. [01:04:40]
3. Apprehension of Christ's Love: Understanding the vast dimensions of Christ's love is not just an intellectual exercise but an experiential one. Paul wants us to grasp this love deeply, allowing it to transform our inner being. This comprehension leads to a fuller, more intimate relationship with Christ. [01:13:47]
4. Fullness of God: Paul prays that we may be filled with all the fullness of God. This fullness is about yielding to Christ and allowing the Holy Spirit to work in us. It’s not about comparing ourselves to others but about striving to be filled with God's presence and power. [01:17:13]
5. Active Divine Power: The power that raised Jesus from the dead is the same power at work within us. This active, dynamic power enables us to live a life that glorifies God. It manifests in consistent spiritual practices and a life surrendered to Christ's Lordship. [01:19:06]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[51:51] - Introduction to Ephesians 3
[52:35] - Unity in Christ
[53:28] - Breaking Down Barriers
[54:38] - Paul's Prayer for Spiritual Resources
[55:12] - Posture in Prayer
[56:07] - Humility and Surrender
[57:13] - Personal Anecdote: Flight to Israel
[58:07] - Addressing God as Father
[59:00] - Inner Spiritual Strength
[01:00:16] - Spiritual Disciplines
[01:01:07] - The Role of the Holy Spirit
[01:04:40] - Spiritual Depth: Dwell, Rooted, Grounded
[01:11:09] - Psalm 1: Stability and Nourishment
[01:13:47] - Apprehension of Christ's Love
[01:17:13] - Fullness of God
[01:19:06] - Active Divine Power
[01:20:47] - Glorifying God in the Church
[01:22:55] - Invitation to Respond
[01:24:30] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Ephesians 3:14-21
2. Psalm 1:1-3
3. Matthew 7:24-27
#### Observation Questions
1. What are the four spiritual resources Paul prays for in Ephesians 3:16-19? ([59:00])
2. How does Paul describe the unity between Jews and Gentiles in Ephesians 2? ([53:28])
3. What does Paul mean by "inner spiritual strength" and how is it obtained? ([59:00])
4. What are the three key terms Paul uses to describe spiritual depth in Ephesians 3:17? ([01:04:40])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Paul emphasize the need for inner spiritual strength from the Holy Spirit rather than self-effort? ([01:00:16])
2. How does the concept of being "rooted" and "grounded" in Christ's love provide stability in a believer's life? ([01:11:09])
3. What does it mean to apprehend the vast dimensions of Christ's love, and how does this differ from merely understanding it intellectually? ([01:13:47])
4. How does Paul's doxology in Ephesians 3:20-21 reflect the power and purpose of God in the life of the church? ([01:19:06])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you tried to live a godly life through your own strength. How did that experience compare to relying on the Holy Spirit for inner strength? ([01:00:16])
2. In what areas of your life do you need to let Christ "settle down and be at home"? How can you make Him feel more at home in those areas? ([01:06:33])
3. Think about a recent challenge you faced. How did being rooted and grounded in Christ's love help you withstand that challenge? If it didn’t, what could you do differently next time? ([01:11:09])
4. How can you cultivate a deeper experiential knowledge of Christ's love in your daily life? What practical steps can you take this week to grow in this area? ([01:13:47])
5. Paul prays for believers to be filled with all the fullness of God. What does this look like in your life, and how can you yield more to the Holy Spirit's work in you? ([01:17:13])
6. The sermon mentioned the importance of humility and surrender in prayer. How can you incorporate these attitudes into your prayer life more consistently? ([56:07])
7. How can you actively rely on God's power to glorify Him in your daily activities and interactions? What specific changes can you make to ensure that your life points to God's glory rather than your own? ([01:19:06])
Devotional
Day 1: Inner Spiritual Strength
True spiritual strength comes from the Holy Spirit, not from our own efforts. While we can engage in spiritual disciplines like reading the Bible and praying, it is the Holy Spirit who empowers us from within. This divine strength is inexhaustible, rooted in the riches of God's glory. [59:00]
Paul's prayer in Ephesians 3 emphasizes the importance of inner spiritual strength, which is a gift from the Holy Spirit. This strength is not something we can generate on our own; it is a divine empowerment that comes from God. Engaging in spiritual disciplines like reading the Bible and praying are essential, but they are not the source of our strength. Instead, they are means through which the Holy Spirit works in us, filling us with God's inexhaustible power. This strength is rooted in the riches of God's glory, making it limitless and always available to us.
When we rely on our own efforts, we quickly become exhausted and discouraged. However, when we depend on the Holy Spirit, we find a wellspring of strength that never runs dry. This divine strength enables us to face life's challenges with courage and resilience, knowing that we are not alone. It is a reminder that our spiritual journey is not about striving in our own power but about yielding to the Holy Spirit and allowing Him to work in and through us.
Ephesians 3:16 (ESV): "that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being,"
Reflection: In what areas of your life are you relying on your own strength instead of the Holy Spirit? How can you invite the Holy Spirit to empower you today?
Day 2: Spiritual Depth
Paul prays for spiritual depth, which involves Christ dwelling in our hearts, being rooted in His love, and grounded in His Word. This depth provides stability and nourishment, enabling us to withstand life's storms and grow spiritually. It’s about letting Christ feel at home in every aspect of our lives. [01:04:40]
Spiritual depth is essential for a stable and nourishing Christian life. Paul uses three key terms to describe this depth: dwell, rooted, and grounded. To "dwell" means to let Christ settle down and be at home in our hearts. This involves inviting Him into every aspect of our lives, not just the parts we are comfortable sharing. Being "rooted" implies sinking our spiritual roots deep into Jesus for stability and nourishment. Just as a tree needs deep roots to withstand storms, we need deep spiritual roots to remain steadfast in our faith. "Grounded" is an architectural term, emphasizing the need for a strong foundation in Christ to withstand life's challenges.
When Christ dwells in our hearts, and we are rooted and grounded in His love, we experience a profound sense of stability and nourishment. This spiritual depth enables us to grow and mature in our faith, even in the face of adversity. It is about allowing Christ to be at home in every aspect of our lives, providing us with the strength and stability we need to navigate life's storms.
Colossians 2:6-7 (ESV): "Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving."
Reflection: What areas of your life have you not fully invited Christ into? How can you allow Him to dwell more deeply in your heart today?
Day 3: Apprehension of Christ's Love
Understanding the vast dimensions of Christ's love is not just an intellectual exercise but an experiential one. Paul wants us to grasp this love deeply, allowing it to transform our inner being. This comprehension leads to a fuller, more intimate relationship with Christ. [01:13:47]
Paul's prayer for the Ephesians includes a desire for them to apprehend the vast dimensions of Christ's love. This is not merely an intellectual understanding but an experiential knowledge that transforms our inner being. To truly grasp Christ's love, we must experience it in our daily lives, allowing it to penetrate our hearts and minds. This deep comprehension of His love leads to a fuller, more intimate relationship with Christ, where we are continually transformed by His grace and mercy.
Experiencing Christ's love in this way changes how we see ourselves and others. It fills us with a sense of worth and belonging, knowing that we are deeply loved by our Creator. This love also compels us to love others in the same way, extending grace and compassion to those around us. As we grow in our understanding of Christ's love, we become more like Him, reflecting His love to the world.
Ephesians 3:18-19 (ESV): "may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God."
Reflection: How have you experienced Christ's love in your life? How can you deepen your understanding and experience of His love today?
Day 4: Fullness of God
Paul prays that we may be filled with all the fullness of God. This fullness is about yielding to Christ and allowing the Holy Spirit to work in us. It’s not about comparing ourselves to others but about striving to be filled with God's presence and power. [01:17:13]
The concept of being filled with all the fullness of God is a profound and transformative idea. Paul prays that believers may experience this fullness, which involves yielding to Christ and allowing the Holy Spirit to work in us. This fullness is not about comparing ourselves to others or measuring our spiritual progress against someone else's. Instead, it is about striving to be filled with God's presence and power, allowing Him to shape and mold us into the people He created us to be.
When we are filled with the fullness of God, we experience a deep sense of peace and contentment, knowing that we are living in alignment with His will. This fullness also empowers us to live out our faith in practical ways, serving others and sharing the love of Christ with those around us. It is a continual process of surrendering to God and allowing Him to fill us with His presence and power.
Colossians 1:9-10 (ESV): "And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to yield more fully to Christ? How can you allow the Holy Spirit to fill you with God's presence and power today?
Day 5: Active Divine Power
The power that raised Jesus from the dead is the same power at work within us. This active, dynamic power enables us to live a life that glorifies God. It manifests in consistent spiritual practices and a life surrendered to Christ's Lordship. [01:19:06]
The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is at work within us, enabling us to live a life that glorifies God. This active, dynamic power is not something we can generate on our own; it is a gift from God. It manifests in our lives through consistent spiritual practices such as prayer, reading the Bible, and worship. These practices help us stay connected to God and allow His power to flow through us, transforming us from the inside out.
Living a life that glorifies God requires surrendering to Christ's Lordship and allowing His power to work in and through us. This means trusting Him in every aspect of our lives and being willing to follow His leading, even when it is difficult. As we rely on His power, we find the strength and courage to live out our faith in practical ways, serving others and sharing the love of Christ with those around us.
Ephesians 1:19-20 (ESV): "and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places,"
Reflection: How can you tap into the divine power that is at work within you? What spiritual practices can you incorporate into your daily routine to stay connected to God's power?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "But did you ever think about the fact that there are some good things God wants to do in your life? Some good things he wants to give and provide and build and develop in your life? Well, he does. He certainly does. And we want to look at a passage of scripture today that I hope God's Holy Spirit can use to edify you, to build you up, to encourage you, to keep on keeping on in your walk with Christ each day." [51:51](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "God wants us to be strengthened by his Holy Spirit in the inner person. Notice Paul did not command these Ephesian Christians to strengthen themselves. Now an athlete can go through all kinds of physical exercises to build their muscles. They can go through all kinds of drills to give them expertise in the particular sport they're playing or the particular position they hold in that sport to strengthen themselves for their best athletic performance. You and I as Christians, can exercise many Christian disciplines. We can read the Word. We can memorize the Word. We can meditate on it. We can pray. We can do all kinds of things. But in the process of doing all these spiritual disciplines, we don't strengthen ourselves." [01:00:16](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The believer in Christ is strengthened by the indwelling Holy Spirit. The Christian doesn't strengthen himself or herself. He prays that we would be strengthened. It's a passive voice verb. The subject of the sentence is not doing the action. So when Paul speaks about the inner man, he's speaking about the core of our being, the will, the part the New Testament speaks of, but the heart, mind, will, and soul, that inner being. It's the deep seat of our personality." [01:02:23](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The question for us is, does Jesus feel comfortable in every room of the house of my life? With Jesus living in our hearts through the indwelling Holy Spirit after we're saved, he's with us with every thought we think, every word we say, every place we go, everything we watch, everything we listen to. Do we make him feel uncomfortable? Is he not quite yet able to settle down and feel at home comfortably? he comfortable in our hearts and lives?" [01:09:37](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Has life gotten you down? You're worn out and weary? Trying to do all the things you believe God wants you to do, but you keep falling on your face? Trying to do it in your own strength? My brother and sister, it can't be done. No matter how serious you are about your commitment, it can't happen in your own strength. It has to come from God and from within. God's not limited. Sometimes we can limit Him. We can grieve and quench the Spirit by refusing to surrender the Lordship of Christ and all that." [01:21:33](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Paul addressed his prayer to the God and Father. He's the father of all people in the sense that he's the creator of all that exists. He's the creator of every human being. But in the biblical use of the term child of God, that term can only be applied to those who are born-again believers in Jesus Christ. In the Gospel of John, he says, as many as received him, to them he gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in his name. And so it's only those who believe in Jesus that are technically, biblically called children. Children of God." [58:07](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Paul wants this inner strength to be equal to or in accordance with the riches, of God's glory. We can never exhaust God's riches and God's power. No matter how much of himself he gives to you and builds into your life, he doesn't lack anything that he has given to you. He is complete and full in himself no matter how much of himself he gives to each of us. We cannot exhaust his riches and the riches of his glory. And so no matter what he does, he's still complete in himself." [59:48](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Our spiritual growth, we may not take giant steps forward. We may be feeling like we're just taking some little baby steps sometimes in our spiritual growth. But God's a whole lot more patient with us than we are with ourselves. Another quote from Dr. Warren Wiersbein. He writes, no Christian ever has to worry about having inadequate spiritual resources. To meet the demands of life. If he prays for spiritual strength and spiritual depth, he'll be able to apprehend, get his hands on, all the resources of God's love and God's grace." [01:15:06](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The trials of our lives can test the depths of our foundation and our grounding in Christ. We need to be strengthened by his spirit and the inner man, rooted and grounded in God's love and in God's word, and with Jesus Christ being at home and in control of every room in the house of our lives. In some people's lives, he's present. In some, he's prominent. In some, he's preeminent. We need to ask, which is it in my life? How much control does Jesus really exercise in my life, moment by moment, day by day?" [01:13:08](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Paul says, God is able to do supra abundantly, far beyond anything we can ask or think, to supply all of these spiritual resources for living that each of us need every moment of every day. Has life gotten you down? You're worn out and weary? Trying to do all the things you believe God wants you to do, but you keep falling on your face? Trying to do it in your own strength? My brother and sister, it can't be done. No matter how serious you are about your commitment, it can't happen in your own strength. It has to come from God and from within." [01:21:33](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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